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What exactly does CC mean in motorcycles?

Camry Black · Jun 21, 2023 01:44 PM

Whether you're a newbie pedaling on your first bike or a die-hard motorcycle lover, you've probably come across the terms 50cc, 100cc, and 125cc. But what's the deal with this cc thing in engines?

What Does CC Mean in a Motorcycle?

“CC” complete form is cubic capacity; in layman’s terms, it refers to the engine's volume. which is essentially a unit of measure pertaining to displacement.  The bike's engine capacity is directly proportional to the level of power it packs. The motorcycle’s capacity is measured in terms of cubic capacity. Cubic capacity or "CC" is a standard parameter for buying a two-wheeler. So, when you say that a motorcycle is categorized as a 400cc model, it simply means that its engine displaces 400 cubic centimeters of volume. More specifically, the engine, across all of its cylinders, can compress 400 cubic centimeters of air and fuel mixture. 

What exactly does CC mean in motorcycles? 01

The cubic capacity currently covers ranges from 50 to approximately 6300 ccs. The larger the chamber of a two-wheeler, the more powerful it might be. The engine capacity of a bike is measured in the same manner as the capacity of a four-wheeler. For example, a two-wheeler with an engine capacity of 350 ccs has a capacity of 0.35 liters. The term “cc” also helps determine engine outputs such as power, torque, and mileage. 

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Common Classifications for "CC":

You probably already know that the meaning of "cc" and engine size go hand in hand. Here's a quick breakdown:

Motorcycle Categories Displacement in "CC" Illustrate
Lightweight 50cc to 250cc While they may not offer extreme speed, compact and lightweight motorcycles are a great option for the daily commuter.
Entry-Level 300cc to 400cc These budget-friendly, mid-sized entry-level models are perfect for novice riders.
Intermediate 600cc to 900cc These models are true all-rounders, capable of effortlessly navigating through city streets and conquering long journeys with ease.
Heavy 1000cc and up For heavy cruisers, touring bikes, and adventure motorcycles, power is essential to effortlessly propel their larger, fully loaded bodies and deliver an exhilarating and seamless ride.

What exactly does CC mean in motorcycles? 01

Factors Beyond CC That Define Bike Performances:

The interplay of engine size and motorcycle weight creates an exhilarating combination of torque and horsepower. These factors often have a greater impact on a bike's ride and overall experience than just cubic centimeters (cc).

  • Torque:the mighty force exerted from afar, gauges the cylinder capacity and combustion cycles at the length of the crankshaft.
  • Horsepower:the measure of an engine's working speed, is a thrilling result of multiplying RPM by torque. Riders can unleash greater horsepower by employing various techniques, like tinkering with gear ratios.

Engine displacement is often considered a reliable indicator of a motorcycle's speed and power. However, it's not the sole measure when it comes to evaluating performance. If you're in the market for a new motorcycle, there are numerous other factors to take into account. To make a wise choice, it's crucial to determine the purpose behind your purchase.

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